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About the Somerville Commission for Women

The Somerville Commission for Women was created in March 1988 by City ordinance. The SCW’s bylaws state that the Commission’s purpose is “to act as a centralizing force in the City of Somerville to ensure the equal status of women in educational, economic, political, health, legal, and social spheres including the provision of information, referrals and guidance… [and] to take any action considered appropriate by the SCW to ensure the equal status of women of every race, religion, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, national origin, ability, age and sexual orientation.” The committees are the heart of the Commission. Currently: Stopping the Violence, Public Relations, Employment and Empowerment. Commissioners serve on at least one committee.

The House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts recognized the Commission on its 10th anniversary for 10 years of outstanding service in advocacy for women, opposition to domestic violence and working for social justice.

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Our People

Events & Activities

Anti-Violence Directory

Women's Data

Cell Phone Drive

Our People

Commissioners

Kristen Strezo, Co-Chair

Cristina DeWeese,Co-Chair

Melissa Alfone

Daisy Monsalve

Kaitlyn Dmyterko

Patricha Paul

Kat Rutkin

Stephanie Goodell

Maggie Norcross Devin

Holly Fox

Commissioners are women living in Somerville who volunteer for a three-year term and are appointed by the Mayor. They work with the Executive Director, decide on activities and projects the Commission will pursue and carry out those activities through committee work.

The Community Services Manager, appointed to the position of Executive Director by the Mayor, staffs the Commission. The Executive Director helps coordinates projects and events, represents the Commission on a variety of committees and task forces, and responds to inquiries from the community.

Volunteers serve on committees and provide essential assistance in organizing and staffing Commission events and activities.

Interns are recruited from local colleges and universities to assist the Executive Director and Commissioners.

The Work of the Commission

The Commission focuses on advocacy, education, and outreach in regards and on behalf of women. The Commission has a special focus on anti-violence, financial literacy, empowerment, coalition building, and monitoring and supporting legislation.

Women's Data

Reports & Data

Cell Phone Drive

Cell Phone Drive to Benefit The Network/la Red

The LGBT Liaison and the Somerville Women’s Commission have an ongoing cell phone drive to benefit The Network/la Red. TNLR is an advocacy group for LGBTQ domestic violence victims. We were able to donate over 100 phones in 2012 and over 175 phones in 2013. Thank you for all your support and please keep them coming! The donation boxes are located at Somerville City Hall at 93 Highland Avenue and City Hall Annex at 50 Evergreen Avenue.